International Focus Magazine Vol. 3, #10 | Page 25

“Technological innovation is Houston’s next economic frontier. To our
friends both domestic and abroad, I advise you not to blink unless you
want to miss what’s going on here.”
~ Mayor Sylvester Turner
The Consular Ball is not only an occasion to recognize Hous-
ton’s internationalism and honor the members of Houston’s
Consular Corps — the third largest consular corps in the na-
tion — but is also an unparalleled opportunity for businesses
to strengthen and create new ties with the key industry,
community and government leaders that make up Houston’s
thriving international scene.
In view of the establishment of the Innovation Corridor, the
announcement of the Innovation Center, and other recent
developments, the theme of the 2018 Consular Ball was,
“Local Innovations for a Global Future”. The evening
began with the Grand March of consular officials through
a saber arch executed by the Ross Volunteer Company of
Texas A&M University, followed by cuisine prepared by Chef
Dominic Soucie of Levy. Following a toast from Mayor Turner
and a reciprocal salute from the Dean of the Consular Corps
Sultan Al Angari, guests closed out the evening dancing to
the sounds of the full Richard Brown Orchestra.
In addition to the generous support received from the local
business community, the main underwriters were Chevron
and Houston First. The event is produced by the Mayor’s Of-
fice of Trade and International Affairs. Staging Solutions and
The Events Company provided the hi-tech atmosphere of the
evening.
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